Ortiz fled Spain but was later arrested in Venezuela in connection with the murders. A Venezuelan court found him guilty last year and sentenced him for the crimes.
Following his release as part of the prisoner exchange, US officials did not provide details on whether Ortiz would face legal consequences upon his return.
The exchange, facilitated through diplomatic negotiations, involved the return of 252 Venezuelans held in US custody under immigration laws, many of whom had been transferred to a high-security prison in El Salvador. In return, the US secured the release of its citizens detained in Venezuela, raising questions about the inclusion of a convicted murderer in the agreement.
Foro Penal, a Venezuelan human rights organization, noted that while nine of the released Americans were classified as political prisoners, Ortiz did not meet that classification. The group did not elaborate further on the distinction but confirmed his release alongside the others.
Spanish authorities have not yet commented on whether they will seek Ortiz’s extradition to face justice in Spain. Under international law, countries may pursue legal action against individuals accused or convicted of crimes within their jurisdiction, even if they are repatriated to their home country.
The US State Department emphasized its commitment to bringing detained Americans home but declined to discuss individual cases.
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